Russians No Longer Able to Create New Google Accounts, Says Digital Ministry

Russians will no longer be able to create new Google accounts as the tech giant, owned by Alphabet Inc., has imposed restrictions on the creation of new accounts for Russian users. This move comes amidst growing tensions between Google and Russian authorities, which have been simmering for several years due to the company's refusal to comply with certain government requests. These restrictions, confirmed by Russia's Digital Ministry, are the latest development in a series of actions taken by both sides since Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Russia’s Digital Ministry Confirms Restrictions

On Thursday, reports from state news agencies revealed that the Russian Digital Ministry had officially confirmed Google's decision to block the creation of new accounts for Russian users. This comes as no surprise, given the strained relationship between Google and Russian authorities. The tech giant has been facing increasing pressure from the Kremlin, particularly for its refusal to remove content that Moscow deems illegal. This longstanding dispute has led to further friction, especially in the context of the Ukraine conflict.

Ongoing Tensions Between Google and Russian Authorities

The tensions between Google and Russian authorities began escalating long before these recent restrictions. Since the Ukraine invasion, Google has taken a firm stance, blocking YouTube channels connected to Russian state media and prominent public figures. This has deepened the conflict, with Russia viewing these actions as politically motivated. In response, Moscow has criticized Google for what it perceives as bias against Russian interests, particularly in the realm of online content.

Google’s refusal to comply with Russian demands has led to a broader crackdown, with the Russian government seeking ways to reduce the influence of the U.S.-based tech giant within its borders.

Confirmation from the Digital Ministry and the Impact on SMS Messages

In an official statement to the Russian news agency Interfax, the Digital Ministry confirmed that Google has indeed restricted the creation of new accounts in Russia. Additionally, the ministry mentioned that telecom operators have observed a significant decline in the number of SMS messages sent by Google to Russian users. These SMS messages are typically used for two-factor authentication (2FA) security measures, and the drop in their frequency raises concerns about the future availability of this service in Russia.

The ministry further noted that it remains uncertain whether SMS confirmations for 2FA will continue to work for existing Google accounts in the country, leaving many Russian users in a state of limbo regarding the security of their accounts.

Russia Advises Users to Backup Data and Switch to Alternatives

In light of these developments, Russia’s Digital Ministry has issued a recommendation to Google service users in the country. The ministry urged citizens to create backup copies of their data to safeguard their information in case Google services become less accessible or completely unavailable in the future. Furthermore, the ministry advised users to consider switching to alternative platforms for two-factor authentication or even transition to domestic digital platforms to ensure continued access to essential services.

Google's History of Restrictions in Russia

This is not the first time Google has taken action against Russian users. In August 2023, the company deactivated AdSense accounts in Russia, preventing businesses and individuals from earning revenue through Google's advertising platform. Prior to this, in March 2022, Google had stopped displaying ads to Russian users entirely and ceased the monetization of content that supported or downplayed Russia’s military actions in Ukraine. These moves were part of a broader effort by Google to align with international sanctions and demonstrate opposition to Russia’s war in Ukraine.

Since the war began, Google has blocked over 1,000 YouTube channels connected to Russian state-sponsored media and removed more than 5.5 million videos that were found to be in violation of the platform's guidelines. This has further fueled animosity between the tech giant and the Russian government.

YouTube's Slower Speeds in Russia: The Blame Game

More recently, Russian users have reported slower speeds when accessing YouTube, sparking a debate over the root cause. Local lawmakers in Russia have pointed fingers at Google, claiming that the company failed to upgrade its equipment in the country, leading to the diminished performance of the platform. However, both Google and independent industry experts have rejected this explanation, suggesting that the issue might stem from other factors, possibly linked to Russia’s broader attempts to limit access to foreign digital services.

Conclusion: The Future of Google Services in Russia

With Google's ongoing restrictions and the increasing hostility from Russian authorities, the future of Google services in Russia remains uncertain. The creation of new accounts is just one aspect of the broader conflict between the tech giant and the Kremlin, and further actions on both sides are likely. For now, Russian users are left to consider alternative platforms and methods to secure their data and continue using essential digital services.

As the situation continues to unfold, the impact on Russian internet users and the digital landscape in the country will be closely watched. The restriction of new Google accounts marks another chapter in the complex relationship between Russia and global tech companies like Google.